Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Program Attorney

If this is the first time you have been charged with a crime, your feelings of fear and uncertainty are normal. The idea of going to jail or prison is scary. Fortunately, Pennsylvania allows many first-time offenders to avoid jail time and prevent a mark on their criminal record.

The program that provides this opportunity is called Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition, or ARD. Started in the 1980s, the ARD program is designed to keep nonviolent first-time offenders out of jail so their lives are not ruined by one bad decision. People who successfully complete the ARD program can avoid a conviction and can ultimately have their arrest record, including their fingerprints and arrest photographs, expunged.

An Opportunity For First-Time Offenders In Pennsylvania

ARD is frequently offered to those who are facing drunk driving charges. However, a variety of other types of offenses may be dealt with through ARD. Essentially, nearly any nonviolent first offense (except traffic violations) may be addressed through ARD.

I am Michael F. Dunn, Attorney at Law, and as a lawyer experienced with the ARD program in Montgomery County, I have helped people enter and complete the program following offenses such as:

As a skilled criminal defense attorney, I will look at all possible options to defend you against the charges you are facing. Since 1980, I have provided thorough representation to people accused of DUI and many other crimes. I combine personal attention, honesty and a commitment to aggressive defense to help my clients get the results they need to move forward with their lives. If the facts of your particular charge show that the case should be dismissed, I will fight for that. If not, I will do everything possible to get you into the ARD program or otherwise minimize the charge’s negative impact on your life.

Call To Let Me Answer All Your Questions About The ARD Program

If this is your first criminal charge, come talk to me about Pennsylvania’s ARD program. For a free initial consultation with an ARD program lawyer, please call 215-572-0955. You can also contact my Glenside law firm online. I represent those accused of crimes in Montgomery County, Philadelphia, Delaware County, Chester County and throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.

The requirements of the ARD program vary according to the type of offense with which you were charged. For example, one condition of ARD for a person accused of embezzlement will be making restitution (paying back the money). Those charged with spousal abuse will need to attend counseling and anger management sessions. At the end of the program, the case against you can be dismissed and your record can be wiped clean.

Client Reviews

Michael is an experienced, successful attorney

Michael is an experienced, successful attorney who sincerely cares about the welfare of his clients. He is straightforward and determined. His professional dedication mirrors his dedication to his family and the Glenside/Abington community. Michael has been a steadfast, selfless volunteer with Hunter Soccer for many years. He is a generous contributor to many local and…

- Carol D.(5 star review)

I am extremely grateful

I sincerely appreciate the tremendous legal counsel that you have provided me with throughout the past months. I am extremely grateful that you had taken me on as a client, consequently achieving perfect results with my case. It is both my duty and pleasure to refer prospective clients in your direction. Your services will be…

- B. P.G.(5 star review)

Thank you for your representation

Thank you for your representation … I believed what you displayed would be referred to by screenwriters of a former era as “damn good lawyering”. “You have earned my utmost respect and admiration for your abilities. Additionally the always pleasant demeanor you displayed was a tremendous help to me during a trying time. Sincerely,

- T.C.(5 star review)

We are quite pleased

We are quite pleased with the outcome you were able to achieve on our behalf. We thank you for your efforts in this matter. If, in the future, we find the need for an attorney rest assured that we will think of you first. Yours Truly.